The bays of Göcek are the reason so many guests fall in love with this corner of Turkey. Within a few nautical miles of the harbour lies an extraordinary collection of coves, inlets, islands and lagoons, each with its own character – some lively with waterside restaurants, others so quiet that the only sounds are cicadas and the gentle lapping of water against the hull. On a private gulet charter from Göcek you can explore them at your own pace, swimming in a different emerald bay every day and choosing whether to dine on deck at anchor or ashore at a rustic restaurant on a wooden jetty. Here are the bays our captains love most.
Because the Göcek bays are so close together, you rarely spend more than an hour or two cruising between them. That leaves long, lazy afternoons for swimming, paddleboarding, kayaking and snorkelling, and makes Göcek one of the most relaxing gulet destinations on the entire Turquoise Coast. Many of the bays are also protected by surrounding hills, so even on breezy summer afternoons the water stays calm.
Gulets in the bays of Göcek
Göcek Island and the Yassıca Islands
Just a short hop from Göcek harbour, Göcek Island and the cluster of tiny Yassıca Islands are often the first swimming stop of the week. Shallow channels between the islets create natural lagoons with sandy bottoms, where the water glows an astonishing turquoise. It is a perfect place for families, as children can swim and paddle safely, and the gentle shallows are ideal for snorkelling. In the late afternoon, when the day-trip boats have gone, the Yassıca Islands become wonderfully peaceful.
Bedri Rahmi Bay
Bedri Rahmi Bay takes its name from Bedri Rahmi Eyüboğlu, one of Turkey’s most celebrated painters and poets, who joined the early Blue Voyage cruises along this coast. On a rock above the water you can still see the large fish he painted during one of those journeys, now a beloved local landmark. The bay itself is deep, sheltered and surrounded by pine forest, with a small restaurant and plenty of space to swim. It is a lovely place to spend a night and enjoy dinner on deck under the stars.
Hamam Bay (Cleopatra’s Bath)
Hamam Bay is one of the most atmospheric anchorages in Göcek. Here, the remains of an ancient bath complex – traditionally associated with Cleopatra – lie partly submerged in the clear water close to the shore, so you can swim over the old walls and steps. The bay is backed by forested slopes and offers good shelter, making it a popular overnight stop. Arrive early or late in the day to enjoy it at its quietest.
Tersane Island
Tersane, meaning “shipyard”, is a beautiful island whose sheltered cove once served as a boatyard. On the hillside above the water stand the stone ruins of an abandoned Greek village, which you can explore on a short walk through olive trees and wild herbs. The bay is enclosed and calm, with clear water ideal for swimming, and a small seasonal restaurant serves simple local dishes. It is one of the most memorable stops of any Göcek week.
Bays and islands around Göcek
Boynuz Bükü, Kuyucak and Sarsala
On the mainland side of the gulf, long inlets such as Boynuz Bükü and Kuyucak are lined with pine trees and dotted with restaurants on wooden jetties, where you can moor for dinner and enjoy fresh fish, meze and grilled meats. Sarsala Bay, further west, is known for its clear water and peaceful atmosphere, and nearby Manastır Bay offers beautiful sunsets. These bays are perfect for evenings when your group wants to dine ashore.
Kızılada, Gemiler Island and Beyond
Heading south towards Fethiye, the red-tinged island of Kızılada has a lighthouse and lovely swimming, and further on lies Gemiler Island, with its Byzantine churches and sweeping views. From here you can continue to the famous lagoon of Ölüdeniz and the dramatic cliffs of the Butterfly Valley. See our Ölüdeniz and Fethiye via Göcek route.
Plan Your Göcek Bay-Hopping Week
A typical seven-night Göcek charter can comfortably include all of these bays at a relaxed pace. Tell your advisor what you enjoy most and your captain will plan the perfect route. Read our Göcek gulet charter guide and Göcek prices to start planning.
Frequently Asked Questions
How many bays can we visit in a week in Göcek?
Usually ten to fourteen, depending on your pace.
Are there mooring fees in Göcek bays?
Some restaurant jetties and marinas charge fees; anchoring in most bays is free.
Which Göcek bay is best for children?
The Yassıca Islands, with their shallow, sandy lagoons.